We are big believers in fostering a child's connection to their roots. Our My Roots Collection and our wall art available in several languages give children an opportunity to explore where they and their family came from, and helps them begin to identify with their heritage. Our Roots Maps are available for all 50 US states, many countries, six continents, as well as our world map. These maps show a child where their family roots lie, whether it's ten or ten thousand miles away. Our number and ABC posters, and our animal and number wall cards are available in eleven languages. These multi-language prints are perfect for reinforcing a second language in the home, or simply to expose children to...

image via pinterest Written by  Christine Martin Times are changing...no doubt. Technology increase, information accessibility, economy transformation all point to this change.  This being said, there is a burning question: Is education keeping up with the pace?  Has there been a parallel evolution in the way schools educate our children? Is increased standardized testing the answer? What about rampant medication of children with attention difficulties?    Modern entrepreneur and author, Seth Godin claims:  We need school to produce something different, and the only way for that to happen is for us to ask new questions and make new demands on every element of the educational system we’ve built. Whenever teachers, administrators, or board members respond with an answer that refers...

Global education has become a key component in school curriculums worldwide. As an educator both in the U.S. and abroad, I have collaborated in developing global education programs in several schools. Many times this is included in the larger school vision and permeates throughout the school culture. Other times, it is a challenge.  With demanding standards needing to be met, asking teachers to take on another component in their daily lessons can be overwhelming. But, global citizenship does not have to be a separate or additional part of the curriculum. It can be integrated into daily activities in a way that corresponds with what students are currently learning and demands little extra work from the part of the teacher.  Here...

Written by contributing blogger, Christine Martin.A few posts on CID deal with how kids literally get a global education while traveling with parents. While it's not always easy, many families value the benefit of experiencing new places together. A recent guest post on Seek Your Course features Amy Bowers who testifies to the cool things that happened when she, her husband and three kids went to Paris on a month long vacation.She shares: I have a serious case of wanderlust and feel like cultivating a traveler’s mind in children is an essential aspect of their education. Going places and learning to look and experience things that are different and novel expands children’s world views in ways that have a cumulative...

Written by contributing blogger, Christine Martin. Color, texture, style are all nice when planning for a room interior design. But, so are the personalized touches: the photographs and travel pieces and things that reflect you. Global style comes easily in children's rooms when you infuse a little of your child's roots. A family tree, maps, or objects of distinct cultural backgrounds are not only interesting but act as reminders of where your kids are from. An Indian fabric, London landmark decal, or Moroccan rug are each unique ways to illustrate your child's roots in their room. More ideas to come.  {images via houzz}